SS Relic

**Good Pwny** · 08-02-2012, 11:16 PM

Thanks for the comments guys! I would never even think about messing with this helmet. I'm just happy I have a relic one in my collection now!

**Espenlaub Militaria** · 08-02-2012 11:16 PM

We also buy and trade your items and full collections!

**davejb** · 08-03-2012, 12:11 AM

You have to guage what condition relic helmets are in before applying any type of acid, if the metal is already thin dont mess with them, you'll end up with less helmet than when you started

**Paul D** · 08-03-2012, 08:25 AM

by davejb

You have to guage what condition relic helmets are in before applying any type of acid, if the metal is already thin dont mess with them, you'll end up with less helmet than when you started

Good advice Dave as there has been some rash advice given out about slapping everything in Oxalic acid etc !!

**Datrus** · 08-03-2012, 08:32 AM

by Paul E

Good advice Dave as there has been some rash advice given out about slapping everything in Oxalic acid etc !!

There sure have Paul....

**Good Pwny** · 08-03-2012, 08:32 AM

I agree with you both! I do wonder about having a clear coat or some other type of lacquer on it to preserve it. Thoughts? I am pretty sure that this lid is the real deal and would love to keep it recognizable for years to come.

- - Updated - -

by Datrus

There sure have Paul....

No relic collector in his right mind would put this in acid. The guy who suggested it has a lot to learn!

**Datrus** · 08-03-2012, 08:48 AM

You can use bees wax (a little complicated to apply), hair lacquer or a flat satin transparent lacquer. No or little gloss! With bees wax you have to heat it up and keep it warm and liquid when applying. The helmet can be kept warm with a hair dryer or similar while applying.

Regards, Lars

**KradSpam** · 08-03-2012, 09:01 AM

Wax gives good results. I've got a relic that was waxed before I got it and it's stable and looks great.

**Datrus** · 08-03-2012, 09:14 AM

I agree on the wax

My preferred relic coating

**Danmark** · 08-03-2012, 09:21 AM

by Paul E

Good advice Dave as there has been some rash advice given out about slapping everything in Oxalic acid etc !!

H'mm ..... is it me who is the "guy who has a lot to learn"? ...... and while I thought I "was in my right mind" ...( & that may well be debatable

) ....however I HAVE used oxalic acid to good effect on my relics. For the untrained in it's use, a reckless dunk in an incorrectly prepared solution or overnight soak will surely end in tears.
ANY preservation ( note I said preservation NOT restoration ) MUST be done carefully, sympathetically, with a full knowledge of the mediums being used and the outcomes expected ...... it is NOT a 'lucky dip'.

If you choose to try oxalic acid it MUST be low percentage and monitored closely..... I soak helmets for 15 minutes only and then remove, flush with water and a toothbrush, inspect for revealed paint and decal and when they appear ....STOP!!

I hope this advice is neither rash nor unlearned ..........
Dan

**Glenn66** · 08-03-2012, 09:21 AM

I believe lacquers don't provide an airtight surface so corrosion will still occur slowly and if for whatever reason you want to remove the laquer you'll need a petroleum or chemical based solution which will damage the decal so I'd be trying the beeswax or renaissance wax method first. (Try it on the interior first and see how it goes). Some before, during and after images would be much appreciated for everyones education if you can.